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Kobe 10 Protro, a new release from Nike, upgrades the legendary Kobe Bryant basketball shoe with new innovative features adapted to today’s game. Originally released in 2015, the silhouette featured advanced cushioning, traction and support in a streamlined model, a game-changer in lightweight performance shoes.
The successor of the famous silhouette
More than a decade after the shoe’s original debut, Nike reinvented one of Kobe Bryant’s most sought-after silhouettes with modern innovations. Staying true to the athlete’s Mamba mindset that inspired the original design, the Protro model (short for performance retro) builds on the foundation of the original shoe. Honouring Kobe’s never-ending pursuit of improvement, the shoe introduces important upgrades across the upper, midsole and outsole, resulting in an improved model that responds to the demands of today’s athletes.
Kobe 10 Protro’s innovative technology
One of these innovations is a redesigned engineered mesh upper, which improves breathability and flexibility without compromising on stability. Even with flexible improvement, the shoe still ensures the lockdown players expect from a silhouette carrying the name of a famed basketball star. Strategically placed reinforcement and a widened forefoot boost comfort while maintaining outstanding support.
The original Lunarlon and heel Air Zoom configuration support has been replaced with a Cushlon 3.0 system combined with a full-length Zoom Strobel. The change results in improved responsiveness, better energy return, as well as a more consistent court feel across the entire foot. By delving deeply into the Nike Sport Research Lab movement data, the Nike innovators reimagined the outsole. The new design provides secure grip for quick cuts, easy changes of direction and a dynamic start.
Key elements retained from the original silhouette
The new model retains the carbon-fibre forefoot wing, one of the most recognisable design elements gracing the original Kobe Protro series. It provides lateral stability during dynamic movements, but it’s not the only feature that remains unchanged. Kobe Protro 10 also keeps the hidden “Endure and Conquer” messaging, which reflects his well-known Mamba Mentality. Engineered through extensive wear testing and athlete feedback, the Kobe 10 Protro ensures that every new feature results in a more effective performance. From improved cushioning to enhanced support and traction, every new upgrade reflects the brand’s commitment to adapting the original shoe’s legacy for the next generation.
The Kobe 10 Protro will be available globally from August 23, 2026. The all-white Halo colourway will be the first to hit the market, while other engineered mesh colour options will be released till the end of 2026. In the following year, the Nike brand will release Flyknit editions of the Kobe 10 Protro with ZoomX foam. Interested individuals can follow the dates of these additional released on on SNKRS and nike.com ahead of every launch. Designed for players who rely on speed, precision and control, the Kobe 10 Protro is a valuable addition for both professional athletes and those developing their game.
